The PtrC2H2.2-6-PtrCYP86A7/A8 Module Regulates Poplar Drought Tolerance Through Mediating Cutin and Wax Biosynthesis Pathways.

ABSTRACT: The plant cuticle, composed of cutin and wax, is crucial for reducing non-stomatal water loss and enhancing drought tolerance. CYP86A genes are key regulators of cutin and wax biosynthesis, yet the mechanisms controlling their expression remain unclear. Here, we identified PtrC2H2.2-6, a C2H2-type transcription factor that is downregulated at both transcriptional and protein levels under water stress in poplar. Through bioinformatics and biochemical analyses, we demonstrated that PtrC2H2.2-6 interacts with PtrPPK1 to regulate drought tolerance by modulating two critical cuticle biosynthesis genes, PtrCYP86A7 and PtrCYP86A8. PtrC2H2.2-6 negatively regulates cutin and wax biosynthesis by binding to the CACT motif in the promoters of PtrCYP86A7 and PtrCYP86A8, thereby suppressing their expres

SUBMITTER: Zhao JJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12946459 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature